By Joshua Boyd / USPHLPremier.com
This past spring and the current summer has led to a total change in position for former Springfield Pics forward Lukas Radina. Not just from forward to defense or any such on-ice transition – but rather he’s going from an NCAA Division III player to becoming an NCAA Division III coach. Western New England University’s Head Coach Mike Young named Radina to the staff as an assistant coach for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Radina, who played for the Pics in the USPHL Premier Conference in addition to USPHL 16U and 18U Divisions, finished a four-year career at the NCAA level last winter. He was ultimately named as Western New England’s Quinn Robelle Award winner as Most Outstanding Teammate in his final/senior season for the Golden Bears.
“Transitioning from a player to a coach at WNEU is exciting. I’m eager to leverage my on-ice experience and contribute to the team’s development from a new perspective,” said Radina, a native of Strakonice, Czechia, who spent the majority of his hockey career in the U.S. “My NCAA years were a great learning experience. They taught me a lot about playing at a high level and gave me a strong foundation in teamwork and discipline.”
Radina joined the Pics originally in 2014-15 at the USPHL 16U (now Tier 1 Hockey Federation 16U) level, and ended up playing 48 games at the 16U level, registering 58 points, good for a 1.21 points per game. Ironically, over a total of 53 Premier games spread over two seasons – the last being 2019-20 – he registered 64 points, also a 1.21 points per game average. He also finished with seven points in three playoff games in 2019-20. Additionally, Radina skated in 35 18U games for the Pics and put up 23 points.
“The Springfield Pics were crucial in my development. The organization provided a strong foundation in skills and game strategy, fostering a competitive mindset,” said Radina. “From coaches Rob Bonneau and the Sarno brothers [John and Anthony], I learned about game strategies, how to motivate players, and how to build a strong team. Their guidance helped me understand what it takes to succeed on and off the ice.”
In his final season with the Pics, he put up 32 goals and 60 points in 38 games and committed in that 2019-20 season to Anna Maria College. He played for two seasons with the AMCats, before transferring in 2022 to WNEU, which is located in Springfield, Mass., bringing him full circle. After closing out his NCAA playing career, he is ecstatic to get going on the coaching end, where he will be helping lead many former Golden Bear teammates to victories in the season ahead. Coach Young and other Golden Bear coaches, including current Pics Elite coach Chris Beaudoin, all had a great effect on Radina’s grasp of the overall game that ultimately helped him ascend to becoming a staff member.
“I learned a lot about game strategy, how to stay in top shape, and what it takes to improve as a player. These lessons will help me teach and guide players more effectively,” said Radina.
The team practices begin in just a few short weeks, but Radina said it’s already been a whirlwind of activity for the staff.
“Our first official practice is scheduled for early September. This summer, the WNEU coaching staff and I are focusing on team-building exercises, conditioning, and reviewing game strategies to ensure a strong start,” he added.
The USPHL congratulates former Springfield Pic forward Lukas Radina on being hired by, and starting his coaching career with, Western New England University!
